Showstopper™

In 1992 Zipp implemented a light media blast process to abrade the resin on the braking surface on the 400 and 440 rims. This exclusive feature resulted in improved modulation and increased stopping power. After 2 years of prototyping, extensive testing, introducing new materials, and modifying existing manufacturing processes we can introduce Showstopper™ brake track technology.

Showstopper™ is a complimenting pairing of a directional, molded-in, texture with silicon carbide particles suspended in the surface resin.
The current media blast process applied to all Zipp rims increases the surface roughness of the brake track providing the rider with consistent and responsive braking. In order to improve this for the wettest of rides, we have introduced a molded-in groove specifically tuned for the Zipp Tangente Platinum Pro EVO Brake Pad. The grooves have been optimized to interact with leading edge (relative to the rotation of the wheel) of the brake pad and the four cooling channels. The leading edge of the pad and first two channels efficiently wipe water and debris outward, cleaning and drying the braking surface, while the second two cooling channels have maximum interference with the grooves allowing greater braking force than a smooth rim. The cleaning effects of the groove and pad interaction improve brake feel and consistency even in dry conditions.

Beneath the textured brake track are SiC particles suspended in the resin. Silicon Carbide is nearly three times harder than hardened steel and is very abrasion resistant. Commonly used in cutting tools and grinding wheels, the SiC particles in our Showstopper™ brake track ensure consistent performance for the life of your wheel.

The net result is equal brake force in wet conditions when compared to industry leading aluminum rims. Showstopper technology delivers greater stopping power in wet conditions than any carbon wheel ever produced.